Give your house a vintage modern mix

(NC) When it comes to perfecting the trending look of vintage modern décor, it’s about striking the right balance between old and new. Although gorgeous versions of this style can be found everywhere, it can be difficult to know where to start. Get ideas for your next project with these creative ways to fashion vintage-inspired décor from Sharon Grech, colour and design expert for Benjamin Moore.

Antique it: Adding antiques or vintage furniture to your collection will warm up the clean, modern lines in contemporary design. “Buying vintage doesn’t have to break the bank,” Grech confirms. “Antique markets or garage sales are some of the best places to find older tables, cabinets or chairs. Once you’ve found your pieces, give them new life with a fresh coat of paint and new fabric if necessary.”

cool aqua 2056-40 - poolside blue 2048-40 - tropical teal cc734

You can create a weathered look with paint by sanding away any peeling or high gloss paint, and picking a colour that works well for antiquing, like whites and brights. Use waterborne interior alkyd paint and a high quality synthetic paint brush. Grech recommends ADVANCE® paint from Benjamin Moore, which is ideal for furniture projects because it is self-levelling and has a longer dry time, allowing you to achieve a high-end finish.

For the perfect weathered texture, allow paint to dry, and then sand some of it off using 80-grit sanding paper. Focus on the legs, drawers and edges. Don’t worry about imperfections, which will make the furniture look like it aged naturally. For a finishing touch, update the hardware on cabinets or coffee tables — brass, nickel or rubbed bronze finishes will keep it classic.

Focus on the bright side: Nothing says vintage like the right colour hues — but be careful not to go overboard. Grech recommends adorning the walls in Wythe Blue HC-143 or Fernwood Green 2145-40 to mix vintage exuberance with modern appeal. If you prefer neutral walls, add colour in with bright retro chairs, patterned rugs or art-deco inspired artwork.

Wythe Blue HC-143

Fernwood Green 2145-40

Accessorize with vintage game and hobby pieces: Use vintage pop art to bring the family together and to add to the theme. “Right now, it’s all about 1950s inspired furniture and games. Record players, retro bikes and ping pong tables are great collectibles, but are also fantastic for entertaining,” says Grech. “Old picture frames, light fixtures and antique jars, vases or bowls will also help add finishing touches to your room.”

Stop into Days Paints and Design and share your antiquing project with us.